Money Tree Root Rot

If you have a money tree, you know it’s more than just a plant—it’s a symbol of good fortune. But nothing feels lucky about a sick plant, and one of the most common threats is money tree root rot. This sneaky problem can quickly turn your lush green beauty into a wilting mess if not caught early. Don’t worry, though. With the right knowledge, you can both stop it from happening and save your plant if it’s already in trouble.

Root rot is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a condition where the roots of your plant begin to decay. For money trees, it’s almost always caused by too much water. The roots sit in soggy soil, can’t get air, and start to die. The dead roots then invite harmful fungi, like Pythium or Phytophthora, which speed up the rot. It’s a fast downward spiral, but understanding the cause is your first step to fixing it.

Spotting the Early Warning Signs

Catching root rot early is crucial for saving your plant. The symptoms above the soil are your first clues. Look for these signs:

Yellowing Leaves: This often starts with the older, lower leaves turning yellow and falling off.
Wilting and Drooping: The plant looks thirsty, but the soil is still damp. This is a classic sign the roots can’t absorb water.
Soft, Mushy Stems: The base of the trunk or stems near the soil may feel soft and squishy.
Stunted Growth: Your money tree just stops putting out new leaves or growing taller.
Foul Odor: A musty, unpleasant smell coming from the soil is a big red flag for rot.

The only way to be sure is to check the roots directly. Gently tip the plant out of its pot. Healthy roots are firm and white or light tan. Rotten roots are dark brown or black, feel mushy, and may fall apart when touched. They often smell bad, too.

How to Prevent Root Rot Before It Starts

Prevention is always easier than cure. By creating the right environment, you can make root rot very unlikely. Here’s your prevention checklist.

1. Master Your Watering Technique

Overwatering is the number one cause. Money trees like to dry out a bit between drinks. Always check the soil first. Stick your finger about 2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait. Use room-temperature water and water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer underneath after 15 minutes. Never let the pot sit in a puddle.

2. Choose the Right Pot and Soil

Your pot must have drainage holes. This is non-negotiable. Terracotta pots are great because they breathe and help soil dry faster. For soil, use a well-draining mix. A good recipe is two parts regular potting mix, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark. This creates air pockets and prevents compaction.

3. Provide Proper Light and Environment

A happy money tree is more resilient. They prefer bright, indirect light. Too little light slows growth and water use, making the soil stay wet longer. Keep them away from cold drafts and heating vents, as stable temperatures reduce stress.

4. Repot with Care

Repot every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil. When you do, only go up one pot size (about 2 inches wider in diameter). A pot that’s too big holds excess soil that stays wet and can drown the roots.

Step-by-Step Guide to Treating Root Rot

If you’ve found rot, act fast. Here is your rescue plan.

Gently Remove the Plant: Tip the money tree out of its pot. Brush away as much wet soil as possible from the root ball.
Inspect and Wash Roots: Rinse the roots under lukewarm running water to see them clearly. This helps wash away fungus and makes rotten roots easy to spot.
Prune the Damage: With clean, sharp scissors or pruners, cut away every single rotten root. Cut back until you see only healthy, firm, white tissue. Don’t be afraid to cut a lot—it’s necessary. Also remove any yellow or dying leaves from the plant.
Disinfect: Dip the remaining healthy roots in a fungicide solution. You can use a commercial product or a homemade mix of 1 part hydrogen peroxide (3%) to 2 parts water. This kills any lingering spores.
Let it Dry: Allow the root system to air dry for a few hours. This gives the cuts time to callous over, which helps prevent new infection.
Repot in Fresh Soil: Get a clean pot (or sterilize the old one) with drainage holes. Add a layer of your fresh, well-draining soil mix. Place the plant in and fill around the roots, gently firming the soil. Don’t bury it deeper than it was before.
Wait to Water: Do not water immediately! The roots are wounded and need time. Wait about a week before giving a light watering. Then, return to your careful “check the soil first” routine.
Provide TLC: Place the plant in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid fertilizing for at least 3-4 months, as the plant is recovering and new roots are sensitive.

Recovery takes patience. Your money tree might drop a few more leaves as it adjusts. But if you see new, green growth emerging, you’ll know you’ve succeeded. It’s a rewarding feeling to bring a plant back from the brink.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Recovery

Even with good intentions, it’s easy to make errors that set back recovery. Here’s what to watch out for:

Watering Too Soon: This is the biggest mistake. Give those roots time to heal before introducing moisture again.
Using Contaminated Tools: Always clean your scissors or pruners with rubbing alcohol before and after use to prevent spreading disease.
Reusing Old Soil: Never put a recovering plant back into old, infected soil. Always use a fresh, sterile mix.
Over-fertilizing: Fertilizer salts can burn delicate new roots. Hold off on feeding until the plant is actively growing again.
Giving Up Too Early: Plants can be slow to show recovery. If the stem is still firm, there’s hope. Give it several weeks to months before deciding it’s a lost cause.

FAQ: Your Money Tree Root Rot Questions Answered

Can a money tree recover from severe root rot?
Yes, it can if there is still some healthy root material and a firm trunk. You may need to prune the top of the plant (some leaves and branches) to balance the reduced root system. In extreme cases, you can try to propagate a healthy stem cutting as a backup.

How often should I water my money tree to prevent rot?
There’s no set schedule. It depends on light, temperature, and pot size. Always use the finger test. In most homes, watering every 1-2 weeks is typical, but it varies widely.

What’s the best soil mix to stop root rot?
A chunky, airy mix is key. A combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark is excellent. You can also add a handful of horticultural charcoal to help keep the soil fresh.

Are there any natural treatments for the fungus?
A hydrogen peroxide root soak (as mentioned) is a good natural disinfectant. Cinnamon powder is a mild natural antifungal—you can dust it on the cut roots before repotting.

Why are my money tree’s leaves turning yellow even though I don’t overwater?
Yellow leaves can have other causes. Check for drafts, too much direct sun, or a need for nutrients. Also, ensure your pot isn’t too large, as that can create chronically wet conditions at the bottom even with careful watering.

Should I use a moisture meter?
A moisture meter can be a helpful tool, especially for beginners. It takes the guesswork out of checking soil dampness deep in the pot. They are inexpensive and can prevent overwatering mistakes.

By staying observant and acting quickly, you can protect your money tree from root rot. Remember, the goal is to create a home where the roots are comfortable—not too wet, not too dry. With these tips, your lucky plant will have the best chance to thrive for years to come, bringing a touch of green and good fortune to your space without the worry of hidden rot.